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What is Considered a Violent Crime in PA?

There are many crimes that a person can be accused of in Pennsylvania. Crimes are generally classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, with misdemeanors being less severe than felonies. Felonies often include violent crimes but can also encompass serious non-violent offenses.

Under Consolidated Statutes, Title 42, § 9714, “crimes of violence” encompasses many crimes, including murder, voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, use of weapons of mass destruction, strangulation, trafficking of persons, rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, incest, sexual assault, arson, ecoterrorism, kidnapping, burglary robbery, and drug delivery resulting in death.

These crimes are classified into several categories:

There is a maximum penalty associated with every felony offense. Here are some examples:

Courts do not consistently impose the maximum sentence. Rather, individual sentences can differ significantly based on various factors, such as the circumstances of the case and prior offenses. Also, felonies that are not categorized under one of the three felony degrees have separate sentencing. Violent or dangerous crimes are graded as criminal homicide, felony, misdemeanor, and occasionally as summary violations.​

The factors that determine how a violent or dangerous crime is graded are the accused’s suspected intent and the result of the act, such as the level of threat or injury caused. The offense may be enhanced based on the victim’s age or condition, as well as the use of weapons.

Being convicted of a violent crime in Pennsylvania has life-changing consequences. You could be in prison for many years. You may be required to pay thousands of dollars in fines. You could face issues with housing and employment.

There is a lot at stake. If you are arrested for a violent crime, stay silent. Do not talk to the police. You should contact a lawyer right away to protect your legal rights.

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Some crimes are more serious than others. Violent crimes in Pennsylvania can result in felony charges, hefty fines, jail time, and more.

If you have been accused of a crime in Harrisburg, PA, get help from a criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of Cory A. Leshner, LLC. We will fight for your legal rights and defend you from the charges you face. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling (717) 909-9999.